50 Jaar voor Christus geboorte c. 1789 - 1810

This unsigned drawing in pen in gray ink wash, depicts a Roman leader shaking hands with a tribal leader, dating back to around 50 BC. Notice the hand clasp, a gesture laden with historical weight. This is not merely a greeting; it is a symbolic act of agreement, a ritual tracing back to ancient times. We see echoes of it in the handshake of soldiers, politicians, and even in marriage ceremonies. The gesture speaks volumes about power dynamics and negotiations, yet its psychological impact remains constant. The act of physically connecting with another, of showing trust and openness. This primal gesture, laden with meaning and emotion, still resonates today, reminding us of our shared humanity across time and cultures. It’s a motif that continues to resurface, evolving yet always present.